Ach! The Training Journal Daily Digest has a new editor and it looks as though he’s a hard task master! Today I was asked to edit a contribution to a thread inviting members to share their creative marketing ideas.

Brevity is not my greatest strength so it was a good exercise for me to halve its length. Here it is:

Creative marketing ideas? Here’s a quick brainstorm:

· I prioritise activities I enjoy. I love writing, for example, and offer a newsletter and regular blog (at http://dorothynesbit@blogspot.com). I regularly invite people to subscribe to my newsletter and include links to my blog in e-mails. This has worked well for me: when an article “hits the spot” people offer referrals, for example. I didn’t set out to attract clients via this forum and still I love it when I do;
· As a coach, I enjoy coaching! Sometimes I offer a complimentary coaching session and this can lead to new clients over time – directly or by referral. The fact that I never hesitate to offer a session is a mark (for me) of a good marketing activity;
· I have many conversations which are not about sales. I’ve made a point of consulting people about my plans to offer coaching groups, for example. These conversations include both direct conversations with colleagues and clients and a wider e-mail circulation with fellow coaches, ex colleagues etc.;
· Asking people to offer testimonials has been an enjoyable way to keep in touch and also supports my marketing, blogging etc.;
· One way to keep in touch is by sharing resources. I share things with coaching colleagues who are an ongoing source of referrals. Over time I’ve found referrals have often come “from left field” from people on my circulation lists;
· I also like to “claim” clients. When I spot my “perfect client” I like to say so, e.g. “I think coaching could really help you because… and if ever you think so too I’d love to be your coach or help you to find someone…”
· No matter what my forward diary I always hold conversations from a place of abundance. I want to attract those clients I’d be glad to “squeeze in” to a full diary and I let people know I only want to work with them if it’s right for us both. This means keeping in touch with a lot of people – and/or a very carefully targeted group!
· I recommend CJ Hayden’s Get Clients Now! and other blogs, e-circulation lists etc. (e.g. Seth Godin and Bernadette Doyle);

Bottom line? For me it’s all about relationships. Anything that has you building relationships with people who value you and what you offer is going to help.